Necrotising enterocolitis

Each year in the UK, around 3,000 babies develop this serious bowel problem and tragically around 35 per cent of these babies die. Those who survive often develop long-term health problems. The disease typically strikes without warning and by the time it is diagnosed, babies are often already extremely ill.

Babies who develop NEC can need emergency surgery to remove damaged parts of their intestines. This condition remains a threat to premature babies – improved diagnosis and treatment are urgently needed.